"Examination of highly variable sections of the genome prove that these young sharks had no father," Feldheim said in a press release. "These findings are remarkable because they tell us that some female sharks can produce litters of offspring without ever having mated with a male."

This virginal conception—or parthenogenesis—has actually been seen in two other shark species, but this is the first time the offspring survived. The two pups are still alive and well over seven years later.

While it is impossible to determine how often, if at all, this happens in the wild, this discovery could have major genetic and species-survival significance. A female bamboo shark could potentially produce offspring without a male if necessary, in order to keep the species alive.

"Sharks have been around for hundreds of millions of years," said Douglas Sweet, who formerly worked at the Detroit aquarium. "I suspect they have some pretty interesting survival strategies that we are only now becoming aware of."